I like Latin, I’ve never studied it, but I like it nonetheless. There are all kinds of cool sayings in Latin. Of course our founding fathers all studied Latin as part of a classical education. Also the Roman Catholic Church has held on to the use of Latin and still uses it today in many places. It was not until sometime in the early twentieth century that ordination exams for Presbyterian ministers were conducted in English, before that they were given in Latin. The influence of Latin is indeed widespread and that is why it is common to see Latin sayings carved into the architecture, embossed on coinage, and used for mottos for all kinds of organizations. Why do I mention Latin? Well I like Latin because people that use it usually are trying to say something important. One of the best Latin phrases I’m familiar with is “memento mori.” Literally the phrase translates to “remember you must die” it is often translated as “remember thou art mortal.” I was reminded of that several times in various ways in the past few days.
For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another (Job 19:25-27).
This month we commemorate the crucifixion of our Lord and we celebrate His resurrection. Therefore let us live life in the fullness of the freedom for which Christ bought us with His precious blood. We live rightly when we live in the gospel, that means taking up our cross and following Jesus, finding His yoke is easy and His burden is light. While we have the faculties of this body, in this world, let us be poured out in service to Jesus. Memento Mori!